Tacitus Paper

DUE December 6

Tacitus' Agricola and Germany are often used by historians to provide information on the Celtic and Germanic tribes during the time of the Roman Empire. He is one of the best sources we have. However, there are a number of issues which make this a very difficult source to interpret and historians must ask the right questions in order to use this source critically. As you are all historians, I want you to do the important task of completing a preliminary analysis of this source by answering the questions below. Your paper should be about 4-5 pages, typed, double-spaced and should include correct grammar and syntax.

Reference: (Agricola, section #) or Germany (section #)

1. Looking at this work, what can be said about Tacitus' attitudes towards his fellow Romans, the barbarians and the imperial policy of the Romans?

2. To what extent is Tacitus a credible source regarding Celtic and Germanic culture? Were you able to ascertain any biases or cultural assumptions? What do you believe are the underlying objectives of the work? Where do you think he may be over or understating his case in order to teach lessons to his readers?